Effects of internet-based enhanced acceptance and commitment therapy integrating interoceptive exposure for panic disorder and the association between working alliance and outcome: A randomized controlled trial

• This study investigated the effectiveness of an improved internet-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (iACT) adapted for individuals with Panic Disorder (PD) and concurrent agoraphobia (AF), incorporating interoceptive exposure for better customization. The treatment, spanning eight modules over 10 weeks, demonstrated significant symptom reduction in the primary outcome Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS-SR), with a large effect size (d=0.92) in a randomized controlled trial involving a wait-list control group (n=79). However, no significant impact was observed on the secondary outcome, Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Inventory (BBQ). Notably, 43% of of the assessed participants in the treatment group were diagnosed free from panic disorder. Utilizing weekly ratings of therapist-client working alliance (WAI-SR-T/C) and PDSS-SE, we explored their connection throughout the treatment and its association with the final outcome. We found a relation between therapist working alliance and the reduction of panic symptoms during treatment. However, there was no significant relationship observed for client-rated working alliance or with the final treatment outcome. This study suggests that this enhanced iACT can be an effective method for treating panic disorder and shows promise for use, particularly in cases where panic disorder is accompanied by agoraphobia. It is also shedding light on the role of alliance in internet-based treatments, however, here it is important to acknowledge that the sample size was small.

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

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